The concentration of nerve growth factor (NGF) is elevated in a number of inflammatory and autoimmune states in conjunction with increased accumulation of mast cells. Mast cells, which are of hematopoietic lineage, and NGF appear to be involved in neuroimmune interactions and tissue inflammation. Mast cells themselves are capable of producing and responding to NGF. Here we describe a protocol for the isolation and culture of peritoneal-derived rat mast cells, together with a [3 H]serotonin release assay which is useful in assessing the effects of antigens and neurotrophic factors on mast-cell activation.